Dr. Tirta Mandira Hudhi Debunks Spicy Food and Sauna Myths

Health influencer and physician Dr. Tirta Mandira Hudhi explained that consuming spicy, acidic, or hot foods does not damage the spleen. The organ’s role in immunity and blood filtration is unrelated to diet, though such foods can irritate the esophagus and stomach and may cause diarrhea due to hard‑to‑digest chili seeds.

She also clarified that sauna use does not automatically boost immunity. Its benefits depend on the type of prior exercise: after strength‑training, heat exposure can increase blood flow to muscles and support growth, whereas after high‑intensity cardio, an ice‑bath is more effective for reducing acute inflammation.